Kia debuted one of the hottest Kia Forte’s in the history of this car’s lineup with the spicy 201 HP Forte GT.

Kia took SEMA 2018 by surprise and let the world know it means business when it unveiled an additional sportier trim level to its already updated Forte lineup. As per Kia North America in an official press release they dropped earlier today(Oct. 30,2018) the Kia Forte just got spicier with the addition of a hot optional engine for the GT lineup, a turbocharged 1.6L that has its crosshairs aimed directly at the 2020 Honda Civic Si. Check out a couple of photos of this potential Civic Si killer below.

Like all sportier trim levels, this KIA Forte GT adds additional styling cues to amp up the sportiness. Outside, Forte GT’s get gloss black grilles, mirrors, side skirts, and rear spoiler. Optional is an even louder exhaust and alloy wheels that are one inch larger.

“The fantastic capabilities of our team of engineers really shined in the development of the Stinger and we’re thrilled to continue injecting a bit more sport into some of the other models in the lineup” said Orth Hedrick, executive director, Car Planning and Telematics, KMA.

The real story is under the hood with the GT benefiting from a DOHC turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder putting out a whopping 201 HP and 195 lb-ft which is four less HP but three more lb-ft than the Civic Si. When it comes to the butt-dyno, those numbers should be negligible.

Unlike the Civic Si, you can get this engine paired to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic along with a six-speed manual (thank the manual gods) transmission.

In order to compete with the likes of the GTI and Civic Si, gone is the rear twist beam and in its place is an independent rear suspension.

Pricing has not been announced for this sportier GT trim level but seeing the Civic Si MSRP starting out at $24,100, expect this Kia Forte GT to undercut that price by thousands.

As it is with everything in life, it’s about the execution. This Kia Forte GT has the power, chassis, and the right suspension to take on the best, not to mention the value.

The Forte GT also looks really good, I might add. But, does it all work together? I’ll be keen to read some of the First drive reviews as they come along.

Or if someone from Kia North America is reading, I’ve yet to get a press car. My contact info is in the “About Us” section!